How long have you been in your job and what did you do before?
I joined RCT council as a Support Worker and I was also a Student Social Worker in the Looked After Children Team in 2006. Prior to this, I did paid and voluntary work with children and families in a variety of settings. I had a lot of interests and experience, however, I felt like I needed a career.
My first real step on the social care ladder was with the Youth Offending Team as a volunteer. Following this, I became a Young Carers Coordinator and loved working with young people and seeing them develop and grow. I then started with small steps to complete courses with the Open University. This led me to complete my Social Work qualification. This was not easy, as I was a single parent with four children, however, I enjoyed the work and placements.
YI was then employed as a social worker in the Assessment and Care Planning Team and gained promotion in 2009 to a Senior Practitioner and was in that role for approximately 9 years. I then progressed to the Disabled Children’s Team.
What does your job involve and what is a typical day like?
My current job involves supporting children and families who have a child with additional needs. No day is the same. For example, I could be undertaking an assessment with a child and family to see if there is a need for support from Disabled Children’s Team. Meeting the family and child and discussing their needs is a delight for me, I love interacting with families
We look at offering the right support to families at the right time to alleviate some of the stresses they are experiencing.
We also look at safeguarding issues and are aware if there are any child protection issues in place. We always try to help the situations that arise, as families need support. However, it is also good to consider what support the families have in their networks and to encourage independence wherever possible. Part of our role also involves working with Looked After Children who have additional needs and they are supported to ensure their needs are met.
What’s the best thing/s about your job?
Working and chatting to the children and young people, they are what I got into Social Work for. They sometimes have to get over some difficult odds, challenges and issues, however, I have enjoyed working with the families and watching them grow and manage these challenges. I also have an amazing supportive team and team manager which is really important to me, I value this support.
What attracted you to apply for a job with RCT Council?
I enjoyed the placement with the Looked After Children team so much, that I knew I wanted to work with RCT social care and children. I was so grateful to RCT who took me on as a Support Worker, and allowed me to carry on with this role, whilst studying until I could have employment as a qualified Social Worker. I learned so much in my first few years and this has helped me in my career.
What positives have you experienced in your career with RCT Council?
Training has always been excellent with RCT and I love the team spirit, we are like a family.
What is the best thing about working for RCT Council?
Agile working, the training is exceptional, and colleagues support each other a lot.
What would you say to someone thinking of applying for a job in social care at RCT Council?
Try it you may like it!!